Another High Desert Drive happened August 1st and 2nd, 2026 and it was a weekend defined by, sun-drenched central Oregon asphalt and camaraderie. We kicked off our annual journey bright and early at Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo, catching up over coffee and bagels with cream cheese topped with bacon while taking in the showroom eye candy before hitting the road.
Day one had us carving over Mount Hood and down into Tygh Valley along the Deschutes River, pushing through dramatic canyon passes and winding farm roads into the historic ghost town of Shaniko. After soaking up the lively energy of Shaniko Days, we unleashed through 43 glorious miles of pure driver’s road down to Fossil. While our one-day drivers carved their way north, the overnight crew swept south through Service Creek into Prineville. We ended in the evening with a relaxed dinner at the Club Pioneer restaurant.
Sunday morning started right with a hearty breakfast at Brasada Ranch before we tackled the sweeping curves of the McKenzie-Santiam Highway, taking in the rugged volcano and lava field vistas over Santiam Pass. Outstanding roads, flawless weather, and great company—this year’s run was one for the books.
